Canada has opened more doors for skilled international workers in sectors like technology and healthcare, with select companies now offering work opportunities exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process.
These LMIA-exempt work permits allow foreign professionals to bypass standard hiring requirements, making it easier and faster to start a career in Canada.
Here’s a look at six companies actively hiring overseas talent under LMIA exemptions, along with details about their open positions, benefits, and application process.
What is an LMIA-Exempt Work Permit?
Typically, Canadian employers seeking to hire foreign workers must complete the LMIA, a process proving that no Canadians are available to fill the position.
However, in industries facing high demand, such as healthcare and technology, certain companies are permitted to bypass this requirement through LMIA exemptions, especially under the Canada Tech Talent Strategy’s Innovations Stream.
Top Companies Offering LMIA-Exempt Permits
1. Ada Support Inc.
About: Founded in Toronto in 2016, Ada Support is a pioneer in AI-driven customer service solutions, offering multilingual support to enhance customer service without relying solely on human operators.
- LMIA Exemptions: Available for roles in AI, customer service technology, and operations, primarily remote with some in-office positions.
- Benefits:
- Stock options
- Generous holiday policy
- Remote work flexibility
- Home office budget
- Positions Open: 15 (focused on product development, revenue operations, and customer support)
2. AlayaCare
About: AlayaCare, a health technology company based in Montreal, provides cloud-based software that simplifies healthcare management, particularly in home care, through advanced scheduling, billing, and reporting tools.
- LMIA Exemption: Available for roles in health tech, software development, and operations. Some positions in Montreal may require bilingualism (English and French).
- Benefits:
- Remote and hybrid work options
- Professional development programs
- Health and dental benefits
3. CellCarta
About: Headquartered in Montreal, CellCarta is a leader in health diagnostics, using cutting-edge technology to identify biomarkers for personalized medical treatments. The company’s focus on personalized medicine is reshaping the healthcare diagnostics field.
- LMIA Exemption: Limited LMIA-exempt positions in scientific research and healthcare technology.
- Benefits:
- Remote and hybrid work options
- Health and fitness programs
- Career growth opportunities
4. Clarius Mobile Health
About: Clarius Mobile Health offers high-quality, portable ultrasound devices for healthcare professionals globally. Known for its innovative medical devices, Clarius is also recognized as a great workplace.
- LMIA Exemptions: Available for roles in biomedical engineering, product development, and medical technology.
- Benefits:
- Hybrid work arrangements
- Employee recognition programs
- Team-building events
5. Clio
About: Clio provides cloud-based software solutions tailored for law firms, assisting with tasks such as billing, client intake, and overall practice management. With offices in Toronto, Calgary, and Dublin, Clio offers flexible work options and is a top legal tech employer.
- LMIA Exemptions: Roles in software development, customer service, and operations are available with LMIA exemptions.
- Benefits:
- RRSP matching
- Parental leave
- Minimum four weeks’ vacation
- Comprehensive health benefits
6. Lightspeed Commerce
About: Founded in 2005, Montreal-based Lightspeed Commerce offers a cloud platform for retail and restaurant management, enabling seamless operations in sales, inventory, and customer service.
- LMIA Exemptions: Exemptions available for software development, sales, and operations roles.
- Benefits:
- Flexible working hours
- Health benefits
- Stock options
- Opportunities for career advancement
Why LMIA-Exempt Work Permits Matter for Foreign Workers
LMIA-exempt work permits present a unique opportunity for skilled professionals to start work in Canada without the extended paperwork typical of LMIA processes. These permits, particularly common in high-demand sectors like tech and healthcare, provide a faster and more direct path into the Canadian labor market, enabling quicker access to work in a dynamic economy.
How to Apply for LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
To secure an LMIA-exempt position with one of these companies, follow these steps:
- Find a Position: Apply for a job with one of these companies.
- Check Eligibility: Confirm that the role qualifies for LMIA exemption based on the company and sector.
- Gather Necessary Documents: Prepare your job offer letter, educational qualifications, identification, and any additional documents required by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Submit Application via IRCC: Complete and submit the work permit application on the IRCC portal.
- Await Approval: Once approved, you’ll be able to begin working in Canada with an LMIA-exempt permit.
With LMIA-exempt work permits, Canada’s top companies are creating smoother pathways for international talent, especially in sectors like tech, healthcare, and commerce.
If you are a skilled worker in these industries, companies like Ada Support, AlayaCare, CellCarta, Clarius Mobile Health, Clio, and Lightspeed Commerce offer a promising route to begin your Canadian career. This could be the perfect time to explore opportunities that provide competitive salaries, growth, and a fulfilling work-life balance in a supportive, forward-thinking economy.
